Native American Mascots AP Sythesis Essay October 2013 | Page 6

having us blame it on a mascot.
So when you say it's fine to use non-derogatory imagery as long as it's being used appropriately, you're
saying that part of that "appropriate use" is educational content about Native Americans?
Yes. For example, in 2003 we entered into an articulation agreement with Central Michigan University, because
they were the Chippewas. As part of that agreement, the tribe and the university each has an obligation. Every
year I go in and address every freshman athletic student about our culture and what it means to be a Chippewa,
and about the proud, competitive nature of our people. We explain that it's not about war paint and fake
feathers. It's about honoring the triumph of these resilient, competitive people.
They also have areas on campus that are dedicated to the presence of the Chippewa Nation. So it's a good crosscultural exchange. And when they go out there and compete, they're Chippewas, they're fighting like a
Chippewa, fighting to win. We've made that university our school of choice for Native Americans, because our
tribal community is close by, so we can help support those Native students.
Many teams say that their use of Native American imagery is meant to be an honor, especially when they
use team names like "Warriors," which is meant to symbolize American Indians' fighting spirit. But
there are others who say this plays into stereotypes of Indians as savages who aren't good at anything
except making war. How do you feel about that?
Once again, it goes back to the responsibility of the school. If they're using a menacing-looking Indian and
trying to intimidate the other team because they might get scalped, that's inappropriate. But if they're using an
image that evokes spirit and competition, and they've celebrated the culture, then they've done their job and
they've earned the right to proudly display that logo.
Everything we've discussed so far is about schools, which can offer the type of educational programs
you've mentioned. But what about professional teams that use this imagery, like the Cleveland Indians
and the Atlanta Braves. They're not in the education business. What's your feeling about them?
If they're not going to educate and they feel no obligation [to do so], then they have no right to use this imagery.
They shouldn't have that privilege if they're not going to celebrate where it comes from.
As I'm sure you're aware, there's an increasing movement to have the Washington Redskins football
team change its name. Any thoughts on that?
I think that would be most appropriate.
One of the most contentious issues that comes up in these discussions is whether white people's opinions -or any non-Natives' opinions -- should even matter. Should non-Natives have a voice in this debate?
Should we simply have a vote among Native Americans and let them decide?
I have to chuckle when I hear that. We all live in this wonderful globe together. If there's a negative impact on
any one group, that impacts all of us as a whole. I think everyone, collectively, can have a voice in this. We
have many brothers and sisters in various minority groups who know what it means ????????????????????)????????????????????????)?????????????????????????????????????????????????((